Get creative

A splash of paint, a swipe of watercolor, a few crayons and a dab of glue. Add some marbles, colored sand and magic noodles and you have a recipe for fun at the 12th Annual Cuneo Museum and Gardens Children's Art Fair.

This year's fair is set for 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 13 at the garden in Vernon Hills. There will be more than two dozen art activities for children ages 3 to 10, all included in the admission price of $3 per child and $5 per adult. In addition to the hands--on art activities there will be magicians, storyteller Paddy Lynn, performances by the Bucket Boys and a chance to visit the Kohl's Children's Musuem bus.

"This event gives children a chance to expose themselves to all the different varieties of art," says Susan Germain, children's art fair coordinator. "When they complete the task on their own, it gives them a better understanding and appreciation for art."

The creative process can be messy, so dress appropriately. The event goes on rain or shine.

Cuneo Museum and Gardens is located at 1350 N. Milwaukee Ave., Vernon Hills. For more information, call (847) 362--3042 or visit www.lakeonline.com/cuneo.